The social innovation in Canary Islands continues generating creative and sustainable solutions through initiatives like FRUTIZUM ARE (Learn–Rescue–Undertake), one of the beneficiary projects of the latest call promoted by the Department of Universities, Science and Innovation and Culture of the Government of the Canary Islands, through the Canary Agency for Research, Innovation and Information Society (ACIISI).
With a funding of 100,000 euros, this project is developed between March and November 2026 with the aim of giving a second life to local fruit —including surpluses and pieces outside commercial standards—, transforming it into healthy ice creams and generating, at the same time, training and employment opportunities.
FRUTIZUM ARE proposes an innovative model that integrates sustainability, circular economy, and social inclusion. Through a digital school-factory based on Industry 4.0 principles, the project trains unemployed people in productive processes and digital skills, facilitating their insertion into the labor market.
Likewise, the initiative promotes self-employment through a system of social micro-franchises, such as solar carts and points of sale in businesses. This model incorporates service & sweat equity formulas, which allow participation with work instead of economic investment, favoring the generation of income and new professional opportunities.
In this way, the project not only contributes to reducing food waste and revaluing local products, but also promotes inclusive entrepreneurship and the economic revitalization of the territory.
FRUTIZUM ARE is part of the social innovation projects financed in the Canary Islands for the 2026-2027 period, all of them aimed at responding to social challenges through innovative approaches and with 100% coverage of the eligible budget.
